Day 1: Rome
Welcome to Rome! Upon your arrival at the airport, we will be there to transfer you to your hotel. You will find all the details you need to meet your guide at the hotel on the information boards. In the late afternoon, we will provide a transfer to the Esquilino neighborhood, an excellent introduction to Rome with its grand basilicas and the Colosseum. Dinner will be included.
Day 2: Rome
In the morning, we´ll begin with a panoramic tour that will introduce us to the “Eternal City.” This tour includes admission to the Imperial Forums, an impressive architectural complex of monumental buildings and squares that served as the center of political activity in ancient Rome. Afterward, we’ll go to St. Peter´s Basilica in the Vatican, where you´ll have free time. The afternoon will be at your leisure.
Day 3: Rome
Enjoy a free day to take in the charm of this city, exploring and discovering its memorable places.
Day 4: Rome - Pisa - Santa margarita ligure - Portofino - Genoa
We’ll travel to Pisa, where we’ll take a train from the parking area to the monumental Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the famous Leaning Tower. You´ll have free time for lunch. Afterward, we’ll head to Santa Margherita Ligure, where we’ll take a boat to Portofino, one of the most exclusive destinations in Europe. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to stroll along the waterfront and enjoy some leisure time. We’ll then continue to Genoa, a city whose downtown reflects its rich history as a powerful republic during the Middle Ages.Note: Occasionally, due to weather conditions, the boat to Portofino may not operate in winter. In such cases, additional free time will be provided in Santa Margherita. Alternatively, you can reach Portofino by public microbus (please keep in mind that the service can be limited, and there may be longer waiting times).
Day 5: Genoa - San giulio - Milan - Verona
Today, we’ll discover one of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes: the Italian lakes nestled in the valleys of the Alps. We’ll travel to Lake Orta, where we’ll visit the medieval town of Orta San Giulio, known for its remarkably well-preserved architecture. Our visit includes a train ride to the center of this charming village and a boat trip to San Giulio Island, which is home to a monastery. Afterward, we’ll head to Milan, the main financial and economic hub of Italy. You’ll have free time to explore the downtown area, visit Milan´s renowned cathedral, and have lunch. We’ll then continue our journey through the Po Valley to Verona, where you’ll have free time for dinner.
Day 6: Verona - Venice
In Verona, you’ll have free time to explore the city of Romeo and Juliet. We’ll then continue to Venice, with an expected arrival around noon. We’ll include a boat transfer to St. Mark’s Square, where a local guide will lead us on a walking tour through the city of canals. You’ll also have the opportunity to admire Murano glasswork. Enjoy free time for lunch and be sure to take a ride on one of the famous gondolas. We’ll be spending the night in the Mestre area or nearby.
Day 7: Venice - Florence
After crossing the picturesque landscapes of the Apennines, we’ll arrive in Florence. Our first stop will be Piazzale Michelangelo, which offers a breathtaking view of the city. You´ll have free time for lunch. In the afternoon, we´ll include a guided tour of the city center with a local guide, seeing iconic sites like the Ponte Vecchio, Duomo, and Piazza della Signoria. This city is truly an open-air museum. Enjoy some additional free time to explore at your leisure.
Day 8: Florence - Siena - Assisi - Rome
We’ll travel to Siena, where we’ll have the chance to see the stunning Piazza del Campo and its beautiful cathedral. Next, we’ll head to Assisi for an included visit to the Basilica with a local guide or a Franciscan monk. Free time for lunch. Arrival in Rome in the evening.
Day 9: Rome - Palermo
At the time informed by the guide, we will make a transfer to the airport to catch a domestic flight included in your trip. On arrival at destination we will give you another hotel transfer. Your guide will contact you at the end of the afternoon or you can consult the information in your hotel reception. Note: remember that on domestic flights, the luggage normally allowed is one suitcase of up to 20 kg in the hold. Passengers must pay for all excess luggage directly to the airline.
Day 10: Palermo - Cefalu - Castelbuono - Tindari - Milazzo
We’ll leave Palermo and follow the scenic Tyrrhenian Sea coastline, taking in beautiful landscapes along the way. We’ll head inland to Castelbuono, a little picturesque mountain town that captures the tranquility of Sicily’s interior with its ancient walls, castle, and charming central streets. Our next stop will be Cefalù, a charming coastal town. Its Norman cathedral, renowned for its unique architecture and mosaics, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The historic center is a delightful mix of narrow streets, sea views, and commercial and tourist life. After some time for lunch, we’ll continue along the coast and visit Tindari, where the Sanctuary of Tindari stands atop a mountain, offering breathtaking views of the sea. This famous pilgrimage site is home to the Black Madonna. Nearby, you’ll find the ruins of an ancient Greek polis. Our journey will conclude in Milazzo, a lively port city overlooking the volcanic Aeolian Islands.
Day 11: Milazzo - Vulcano - Lipari - Taormina
Our day will be filled with unforgettable experiences as we explore two islands in the Aeolian archipelago, UNESCO World Heritage Sites renowned for their continuous volcanic activity. We’ll start with a hydrofoil boat ride to Vulcano, where you’ll immediately be struck by the smell of sulfur from the island’s active fumaroles. Dominated by its crater, Vulcano is famous for its hot water beaches. We highly recommend indulging in the sulfurous hot springs, as the mud is said to have great benefits for the skin. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience! Next, we’ll take a 15-minute hydrofoil boat ride to Lipari, the largest and most charming of the Aeolian Islands, with its historic center, castle, and vibrant tourist scene. You’ll have time for lunch and a leisurely stroll. Afterward, we’ll return by boat to Milazzo and continue to Taormina, arriving by the end of the day. Dinner will be included.Note: During the summer or on special dates, accommodation may be arranged in Messina instead of Taormina.
Day 12: Taormina
At the foot of Mount Etna lies the enchanting city of Taormina, once described by Churchill as the most beautiful place on earth. You´ll have time to explore the lively historic quarter, with its Greek theater dominating the mesmerizing landscape. You can also relax on the beach. Dinner will be included.
Day 13: Taormina - Catania - Villa romana del casale - Agrigento
We’ll travel to Catania, a city founded by the Greeks, which, despite the destruction caused by volcanic eruptions, still boasts a beautiful baroque center. Next, we’ll head to the heart of the island to visit Caltagirone, a UNESCO World Heritage city. You’ll enjoy a ride on the tourist train and have time to stroll through the streets and admire its famous Sicilian ceramics. After lunch, we’ll continue to the impressive Villa Romana del Casale (admission included), renowned for its remarkably well-preserved Roman mosaics, considered some of the most beautiful in the world. We’ll then proceed to Agrigento, where, before heading to the hotel, we’ll enjoy views of the magnificent Valley of the Temples from the comfort of our coach. Dinner will be included.
Day 14: Agrigento - Marsala - Erice - Palermo
We’ll visit the Valley of the Temples with a local guide, an impressive archaeological site known as the most complete complex of Greek temples (admission included). Then, we’ll travel to Marsala, a historic city renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and famous wine, where we’ll have time for lunch. Our journey will continue around the scenic Marsala salt pans to Erice, a charming Phoenician town overlooking the sea, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Finally, we’ll head to Palermo. Dinner will be included.
Day 15: Palermo - Monreale - Palermo naples ferry
After breakfast, we’ll explore Palermo, starting with a transfer to the picturesque village of Monreale, now on the outskirts of the city. We’ll visit the breathtaking Arab-Norman cathedral, a World Heritage Site famed for its magnificent golden mosaics (tickets included). Palermo is a city rich in contrasts, reflecting the history of Arabs, Normans, and Baroque splendor. Key sights include the Cathedral (tickets included) and the Norman Palace, featuring the exquisite Palatine Chapel. After our tour, we’ll enjoy some free time. Later in the afternoon, we’ll board a modern night ferry. Accommodation will be in double cabins with en suite bathrooms.
Day 16: Palermo naples ferry - Naples - Pompeii - Rome
We’ll arrive in Naples early in the morning (breakfast not included) and continue to Pompeii, where we’ll admire the remains of this ancient Roman city, buried under the ashes of Mount Vesuvius. A local guide will accompany us (tickets and tour are included). Afterward, we’ll explore Naples, one of the most fascinating cities in Italy and among the oldest populated places in Europe. The historic center of Naples, one of the largest in Europe, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There will be time for a stroll and lunch. We’ll conclude our day with an arrival in Rome.
Day 17: Rome
After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.
